Home of the tallest waterfall in the state of Florida, Falling Waters State Park is a scenic destination for those looking to escape into the wilderness. Just a short drive south of I-10 near Chipley in the Panhandle, this park has many activities for visitors.
History of the Park
The sinkholes nestled throughout the grounds were once used by the Seminole Indians during the war against Andrew Jackson.
During the Civil War a gristmill was erected to grind corn. Later the site of the mill was turned into a distillery in the 1890s.
The oil well that was drilled in 1919 was the first of it’s kind in Florida and was capped in 1921 after not enough supply was found.
The park was founded in 1962 after Washington County Development Authority donated the land to have a park created.
Visiting the Park
The park is open from 8 a.m. CST until sunset every day of the year. Admission to the park is $5 per car load. For current admission rates and operating hours please visit https://www.floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/falling-waters-state-park.
Park Activities
There are many options of activites to do while you visit the park. From hiking down forest trails or swimming in a lake there are opportunities for fun.
Falling Waters Waterfall happens to be the tallest waterfall in the state of Florida and drops 100 feet into a natural sinkhole. Seasonal weather affects the water flow that tumbles over the falls.
Several sinkholes are scattered across the state park and viewing platforms allow visitors to snap photos on their journey.
Hiking trails wind through the woodlands and plaques tell the park history and diversity in nature during your walk.
Turtle Lake is a two acre reservoir that helps keep water flowing over the falls. The lake has a gorgeous sandy beach for swimming as well as docks for fishing and nature watching. Watch out for alligators!
Pavilions complete with picnic tables are conveniently located throughout the park offering guests the chance to have a nice place to eat.
There is a playground near the main parking lot that allows children to stretch their legs.
Camping at the Park
Falling Waters State Park offers campsites for guests on one of the highest hills in the state.
24 campsites are scattered amongst the woods for overnight stays. Utilities, restrooms and a dump station are all conveniences offered to campers.
Thanks for reading and as always, “Keep on Truckin'”- Violet Sky
